James Van Der Beek, famous for starring in the television drama series Dawson’s Creek and films such as “Varsity Blues,” died at the age of 48. His family confirmed that actor died on Wednesday, February 11, after battling cancer.
The actor’s family released a statement on Instagram announcing the news.
“Our beloved James David Van Der Beek passed away peacefully this morning. He faced his final days with courage, faith, and grace. There is much to share in accordance with his wishes, his love for humanity, and his understanding of the sacredness of time. Those days will come. For now, we ask for privacy to grieve for our husband, father, son, brother, and friend.”
Although his rise to fame was in the 90s with Dawson’s Creek, Van Der Beek recently had a recurring role in series such as CSI: Cyber, Pose, and also lent his voice to 69 episodes of the animated series Vampirina.
The actor participated in the reality show Dancing With the Stars during its 28th season and competed as Griffin on the reality show The Masked Singer in 2025.
His most recent guest appearance was over two episodes of Overcompensating.
How many kids he had?
Inside James Van Der Beek's heartbreaking final days: Friends reveal hospice agony… his secret final battle… and his stirring last stand https://t.co/6itUK3xSGB
— Daily Mail US (@Daily_MailUS) February 12, 2026
Van Der Beek is survived by his wife, Kimberly Brook, and six children. He was previously married to actress Heather McComb, from whom he divorced in 2010.
What type of cancer?
In 2023, the actor was diagnosed with colorectal cancer, and he made his diagnosis public in 2024. “I’ve been dealing with this diagnosis privately and taking steps to resolve it, with the support of my amazing family. There is reason for optimism and I’m feeling good,” the actor told People magazine at the time.
He was battling stage three colorectal cancer. Van Der Beek shared that he received the diagnosis after a colonoscopy.
He was in stage three of the disease, meaning it had spread to nearby lymph nodes. He passed away on February 11.
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